The agricultural sector in India has undergone significant changes since independence in 1947. The diverse landforms of the country have played a crucial role in shaping agricultural practices and productivity.

Need for Landforms in Agriculture
- **Diverse Climate**: Different landforms create varied climatic conditions, which influence the types of crops that can be cultivated.
- **Soil Variability**: Different landforms lead to a variety of soil types, impacting fertility and crop yield.
- **Water Availability**: The topography affects rainfall patterns, river systems, and irrigation potential, essential for agricultural sustainability.

Types of Landforms and Their Impact on Agriculture
- **Plains**:
- Favorable for extensive agriculture due to fertile alluvial soil.
- Major regions like the Indo-Gangetic plains support high-yield crops such as wheat and rice.
- **Plateaus**:
- Support cultivation of crops like pulses and oilseeds.
- Example: Deccan Plateau, which has diverse cropping patterns due to varied climatic conditions.
- **Mountains**:
- Facilitate horticulture and plantation crops like tea and coffee.
- Example: Western Ghats, known for spice cultivation and tropical fruits.
- **Deserts**:
- Limited agriculture, dependent on irrigation techniques and drought-resistant crops.
- Example: Thar Desert, where crops like millet are grown using traditional methods.
- **Coastal Areas**:
- Support fisheries and salt cultivation along with paddy fields.
- Example: Konkan and Coromandel coasts, where rice and coconut are extensively cultivated.
In conclusion, the diverse landforms of India have not only dictated the agricultural practices but have also influenced the economic development of the sector, making it a vital component of the Indian economy post-independence.